Do Canadians Need a Yellow Fever Vaccine for Africa?

Planning a trip to Africa — whether a safari adventure in Kenya, Tanzania, or South Africa, or exploring vibrant cities and cultures — means thinking about your health and safety. One of the most common questions we hear from Canadian travellers is: Do I need a yellow fever vaccine? The answer depends on your itinerary, but most often, yes!

What Is Yellow Fever Anyways?

Yellow fever is a viral illness spread by infected mosquitoes in tropical parts of Africa and South America. While many people only experience mild flu-like symptoms, it can sometimes develop into serious illness, causing jaundice (yellowing skin and eyes), organ failure, and even death.

The good news? Yellow fever is preventable with a single-dose vaccine, which provides lifelong protection for most travelers.

Is the Yellow Fever Vaccine Required for Africa?

Certain African countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination—known as the International Certificate of Vaccination (the “yellow card”)—to enter. This is especially true if you’re arriving from or transiting through a country with a risk of yellow fever. Popular destinations such as Ghana, Uganda, Cameroon, and others have this requirement.

Even if your destination doesn’t require the vaccine, it may still be strongly recommended depending on your travel plans and risk exposure.

Where Can Canadians Get the Yellow Fever Vaccine?

In Canada, only authorized Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres can give the vaccine, and these are often located in select pharmacies. Finding the right centre and making appointments can be confusing and time-consuming.

That’s where VirtualTravelClinic.ca makes travel health simple.

Start with a convenient virtual consultation with one of our certified travel medicine experts. They’ll carefully review your travel itinerary and health history to tailor advice just for you.

If the yellow fever vaccine is recommended, we’ll refer you to a certified pharmacy near you for your vaccination appointment. You’ll receive your official “yellow card” needed for travel—all without disrupting your daily routine or long wait times.

Can You Be Exempt from the Yellow Fever Vaccine?

Some travelers such as infants under 9 months, adults over 70, or those with certain health conditions may not be eligible for the vaccine. In those cases, you may receive an official medical exemption certificate that some countries accept in place of vaccination.

Our team will help you understand your options and ensure you have the proper documentation so your travel is smooth and worry-free.